Baptism

Introduction

1. It Pictures our transformation

John was baptizing, but it was not the same.

Acts 19:4 CSB

Paul said, “John baptized with a baptism of repentance, telling the people that they should believe in the one who would come after him, that is, in Jesus.”

John protests because he believes Jesus to be sinless

Jesus does not argue, but explains that HIs baptism is unique

Jesus pictures the act that He would later carry out.

Want to talk about importance, Jesus confesses that He cannot fulfill all righteousness (perfection) without this.

Application: Biblical baptism is not optional. Jesus could not have been our perfect sacrifice if He had not been baptized

2. It Proclaims the Trinity

God the Son: Jesus is the one being baptized

God the Holy Spirit: in the form of a dove (picture of peace with God). The Holy Spirit of God’s ministry is to proclaim and point to Jesus

God the Father: Proclaims that Jesus is His son. Jesus gave a picture of His death burial and resurrection, the Father said He is pleased. On that Resurrection Sunday what was pictured was actually accomplished, and once again the Father was well pleased.

3. It Protects us from temptation

Temptation often comes after a great spiritual experience.

Temptation one: Satisfy the flesh at the expense of the spirit

Drug abuse

Alchohol abuse

Sexual sin

Gluttony/overeating

Application: We are not our basest desires, we are now more than that through Christ. Tonight if you are struggling here get at the altar and give it to God.

Temptation two: Presume upon the grace of God

Use your salvation as a reason to sin

Make major decisions before seeking the will of God

Application: Our baptism reminds us that our lives are hidden in the life of Christ. We are not free to presume upon His grace, but to constantly live in communion with Him.

Temptation three : Compromising to get something we want

Compromising is actually cooperation with the enemy. It actually giving him worship

Irony-What Satan offered Christ, Christ would eventually inherit. When we compromise we short circuit God’s best for our lives.

Conclusion

Jesus could not have been obedient without His baptism

I could not have been obedient without mine

God has given me a wonderful calling

God has given me a wonderful family

God has given me a wonderful ministry

God has once again given me a wonderful church

There is no better life than the obedient life!